Minister launches guide to combat squatters
An online guide offering legal advice on how to prevent squatters has been launched.
The guide says that anyone looking to remove squatters from their home can apply for an interim possession order, which requires the squatters to leave the property within 24 hours. It is then an offence for the squatter to return to the property within 12 months.
Housing Minister, Grant Shapps is quoted as saying: "I want to shut the door to squatters once and for all, and for homeowners to know their rights just as well as those looking to take over their properties. That is why I am publishing advice making it clear how the law is on their side and that there are steps they can take to take back their home quickly and efficiently."